Automation Controls Technician - Plant

Forsman Farms•Howard Lake, MN

About The Position

The Automation Controls Technician supports plant operations by installing, maintaining, troubleshooting, and improving automated equipment and control systems. The role works with plant, maintenance, process management, IT, and external controls teams to improve system performance, reliability, safety, and production efficiency. It includes developing and updating PLC logic and control software, supporting system expansions and upgrades, maintaining PLC infrastructure and critical spares, and training managers and operators on control processes. The position may require working on ladders, platforms, or elevated areas and working after regular production hours or occasional weekends as needed.

Requirements

Strong mechanical aptitude with excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Effective written and verbal communication skills.
Hands-on experience with automation systems, PLC programming and controls, SCADA, and industrial networking.
Solid electrical and mechanical skills and ability to use standard tools and diagnostic equipment.
Ability to prioritize workload, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines.
Proven troubleshooting skills and ability to evaluate issues critically and independently.
Willingness to work after regular production hours and occasional weekends as needed.
PLC programming and troubleshooting experience; experience in manufacturing or processing environments is preferred in the Spanish-language qualifications.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively with Operations, Maintenance, and contractors.
Ability to operate a forklift and/or pallet jack safely and efficiently.
Ability to work comfortably in a dynamic, fast-paced production environment.
Excellent communication and training skills, including ability to explain technical concepts to nontechnical people.
Demonstrated ability to identify, implement, and maintain process and equipment-reliability improvements.

Nice To Haves

PLC programming and troubleshooting experience in manufacturing or processing environments.

Responsibilities

Install, test, and maintain electrical and electronic wiring, equipment, and control systems using standard tools.
Develop, update, and troubleshoot PLC programs, object-oriented logic, and other control software to improve productivity and system reliability.
Diagnose system issues using test equipment and tools, identify root causes, and perform timely repairs.
Maintain accurate records, reports, and documentation; assist with writing procedures and managing supplies.
Work from ladders, platforms, or elevated areas to perform electrical or control-related tasks when necessary.
Collaborate with plant and maintenance personnel to optimize automation processes and maximize efficiency.
Train management and operators on new or updated PLC logic and control processes.
Build comprehensive knowledge of plant operations to support effective system troubleshooting.
Manage PLC infrastructure and related equipment, including maintaining critical spare parts.
Partner with process management teams on system expansions, upgrades, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Coordinate with the IT team to ensure stable and reliable network connectivity for control systems.
Work with maintenance teams and external controls contractors to enhance facility operations.
Participate in planning and implementing automation systems for future facility expansions.
Perform other duties as assigned.